The best places to live in Florence
Even though it is a relatively small city, the various areas and suburbs in Florence cater to all types of people. There are options for students and young professionals who crave the hustle and bustle of the inner centre, and for families who prefer the peace and quiet of the outskirts. Each area has a different feel, and expats should be sure to spend some time exploring the different options when looking for accommodation before making a firm decision on where to live.
Trendy and artsy areas in Florence
San Marco
San Marco is to the north of the Centro Storico and is primarily residential, extending to Piazza Indipendenza and Piazza Libertà. The area gets congested with tourists, but has a good selection of shops and restaurants, and the university botanical gardens provide some reprieve. Public transport in the area is good, but San Marco isn’t well suited to private vehicles.
Santo Spirito
The residents of this trendy area are a mix of expats, students, and artists. Its lively piazza is lined with restaurants, and it houses several museums and public gardens. Its narrow streets are dotted with shops, but they aren’t easy to navigate by car, so most residents walk, cycle, or use buses.
Santa Croce
Santa Croce hosts the Sant’Ambrogio Market, one of the best places to buy local produce in the city. It’s centrally located, but tourists pass through mainly to visit the Santa Croce church – the rest of the area is residential.
There are plenty of restaurants and bars here, and because it isn’t too touristy, Santa Croce has an authentic Italian atmosphere. Still, there are always people out and about, which makes the area feel safe even at night, and there is a vibey nightlife atmosphere. Santa Croce is a good choice if you don't mind some noise and activity around you.
Rifredi
Rifredi, in the northwestern part of Florence, is a dynamic and growing suburb. This area is known for its medical and research facilities, including the Careggi Hospital, and attracts many healthcare professionals and researchers. It has a diverse community and offers affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for young professionals and families alike. The suburb is well served by public transport, and its blend of modern and traditional Italian architecture adds to its unique charm.
Campo di Marte
Campo di Marte, located to the east of the city centre, is a quieter suburb ideal for families and sports enthusiasts. Known for its large sports stadium, the area offers a blend of urban convenience and quiet residential life. The lush green spaces and proximity to local amenities make it a sought-after location for those who prefer a balance of city life and tranquillity. While the area is well connected by public transport, its spacious streets also accommodate private vehicles, making Campo di Marte a practical choice for those with cars.
Family-friendly and peaceful suburbs in Florence
San Niccolò
The San Niccolò area offers a unique small-town feel. It doesn’t attract many tourists, except those passing through to get to the Piazzale Michelangiolo, but expats wanting to live in this peaceful area should be aware that rent prices are known to be high.
Novoli
Novoli is a city quarter that offers an alternative to the busy, touristy city centre, while still being well connected by public transport. This neighbourhood lies in the northwestern part of Florence and is a perfect, quiet and cosy spot for families.
Via Bolognese
Ideal for expats who own a personal vehicle, Via Bolognese snakes northwards out of the city. It doesn’t attract all the tourist foot traffic like the city centre, but its leafy atmosphere has its own appeal, like the gardens of Parnassus. The biggest downside is that residents here have longer commutes than their counterparts in the city centre.
Fiesole
Fiesole, nestled in the hills just north of Florence, offers a picturesque escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This ancient town, with its Etruscan and Roman roots, is perfect for history buffs and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Its elevated position provides stunning views of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan landscape.
The area is well known for its cultural events, fine dining, and artisan shops. Fiesole is less connected by public transport compared to other suburbs, making it more suited for those with private vehicles or who enjoy leisurely walks in nature.